Filmtour Düsseldorf: From Hollywood to Netflix

Düsseldorf’s cinematic side comes alive on the Filmtour “From Hollywood to Netflix.” For just around $28, you get a lively, 2.5-hour stroll through the city’s most notable filming spots, led by a knowledgeable guide. During this walk, we visit landmarks from big-screen Hollywood productions and hit Netflix series, blending film history with the everyday charm of Düsseldorf.

What we love about this experience is how it combines storytelling with a sense of place—walking past the Ex-Nikko Hotel where a film scene was shot, or standing before the Dreischeibenhaus where Halle Berry once posed for photos. It’s also quite accessible, with a small group size that makes conversation easy and enough time to ask questions. Plus, the small cinematic gift you take home adds a personal touch to the tour.

A possible downside? If you’re expecting a deep dive into film techniques or a broader overview of the entire film industry, this tour keeps its focus pretty tight on specific locations and stories. Also, it involves about 2 kilometers of walking—so comfortable shoes are a must.

This tour works best for film enthusiasts, Netflix fans, or anyone curious about Düsseldorf’s role in the entertainment world. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy walking through a city with a guide who brings stories to life—plus, it’s a great way to get some fresh air and learn something new about this vibrant city.

Key Points

• Location Highlights: Visit iconic spots like the Düsseldorf Film Museum, Dreischeibenhaus, and the former Nikko Hotel.
• Filming Stories: Learn about famous films shot here, from Hollywood to Netflix series, with behind-the-scenes anecdotes.
• Authentic City Experience: The tour blends film locations with glimpses of local life, including the Old Town Hall and art academy.
• Short & Sweet: At 2.5 hours, it’s a manageable time investment, ideal for a morning or afternoon outing.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, making it easy to interact and ask questions.
• Cultural Insight: Discover Düsseldorf’s cinematic past, stars like Wenders and Rainer, and its history as a city of cinemas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Filmtour Düsseldorf

When you first arrive outside the Clayton Hotel—formerly the Nikko Hotel—you’re greeted by your guide, ready to unfold Düsseldorf’s filmic tales. The tour starts here, a central point that’s easy to find with its distinctive red beer crate and DU Tours flag. From this spot, you’ll venture through the city, encountering a mixture of modern architecture, historic buildings, and film-related landmarks.

Exploring the Heart of Düsseldorf’s Film Scene

The first stop is the ex-Nikko Hotel, now the Clayton Hotel, which has played a role in cinematic productions. Your guide will share stories of how director Dominik Graf used the hotel’s space for pyrotechnics scenes, giving you a behind-the-scenes glimpse of film production. Just nearby, you’ll see the Dreischeibenhaus, a striking 95-meter office tower that served as a backdrop in Hollywood films and for Halle Berry’s photo shoots. This building’s sleek, modern lines are a stark contrast to the historic Old Town, yet both are part of Düsseldorf’s cinematic landscape.

Walking past the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, you get a taste of the city’s artistic spirit. This art school has been the starting point for many actors and filmmakers, making it a fitting location for a film tour. The tour then moves toward the Düsseldorf Film Museum, where you might learn that on Sundays, entry is free—an excellent opportunity if you want to deepen your film knowledge. Right now, the museum is showcasing an exhibition about animal actors like Lassie and Flipper—adding an extra layer of film history.

Hollywood and Netflix in Düsseldorf

The guide points out where scenes from Netflix series—like “King of Stonks”—were filmed, giving you a sense of how modern streaming productions are shaping the city’s film profile. The tour also references Götz George’s iconic role as Schimanski, the gritty detective who fought in the high-rise canteen of the Deutsche Rentenversicherung. These stories help paint Düsseldorf as a city with a surprising breadth of cinematic history.

Authentic Stories and Anecdotes

Guests have noted how engaging the guide is, with one reviewer praising the “lots of interesting information” and the storytelling approach. The guide’s tales make it easy to picture actors like Halle Berry walking these streets, or the pyrotechnics lighting up the ex-Nikko Hotel. These anecdotes turn a simple walk into a cinematic journey, making the locations come alive with meaning.

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Practicalities and Experience Details

The tour covers about 2 kilometers of walking, which is manageable even if you’re not a super-athlete. Comfortable shoes are advised, especially since weather can be unpredictable in Düsseldorf. The group is small—no more than 10 people—which encourages interaction and makes for a more personalized experience.

Price-wise, at $28 per person, it offers good value considering the depth of stories shared and the exclusive look at film locations. The tour includes a guide, the walk itself, and a small cinema-themed souvenir to remember the day. However, note that entry to the Düsseldorf Film Museum isn’t included, so if you want to explore further, budget accordingly.

The tour runs rain or shine, so bring an umbrella if needed. It’s also conducted in German, so some familiarity with the language might enhance your experience, though the visual storytelling of locations is quite universal.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you love movies—whether Hollywood blockbusters or Netflix series—this tour offers a fun, insider’s perspective on Düsseldorf’s film scene. It’s also great for those interested in architecture, as you’ll see buildings that have made their mark on the cinematic landscape. The small group size ensures a relaxed, conversational atmosphere, perfect for asking questions or sharing your own film favorites.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of culture and city life, as the walk balances film lore with local sights and stories. If you’re a fan of anecdotes, behind-the-scenes stories, or just enjoy exploring a city from a different angle, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts: Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

This walking tour provides a focused yet rewarding glimpse into Düsseldorf’s film history and contemporary media scene. With its accessible pace, engaging storytelling, and unique locations, it’s a good choice whether you’re a film buff or simply curious about what goes on behind the camera in this vibrant German city.

The combination of historical insights, modern filming locations, and a personal souvenir makes it more than just a sightseeing walk—it’s an immersive experience into Düsseldorf’s cinematic identity. For a reasonable price, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the city’s contributions to film and television, and possibly discover some new favorites along the way.

Because of its manageable length and small-group format, it’s ideal for those with limited time but wanting a rich, authentic experience. If you enjoy exploring cities through stories and scenery rather than just monuments, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the Filmtour Düsseldorf?
It lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering about 2 kilometers of walking.

What locations are visited during the tour?
You’ll see the Clayton Hotel (formerly Nikko Hotel), Dreischeibenhaus, Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf Film Museum, and sites associated with Hollywood movies and Netflix series.

Is the tour suitable for non-German speakers?
It’s conducted in German, but visual locations and stories are easy to follow. If you’re comfortable with some German or are eager to learn, you’ll enjoy it.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure a spot, especially since it’s limited to small groups and offers flexible reservation options—like reserving now and paying later.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and check the weather forecast so you can dress accordingly—rain or shine, the tour goes on.

Is entry to the Düsseldorf Film Museum included?
No, entry tickets are not included. However, on Sundays, the museum is free, which could be a nice addition if you wish to explore further.

Can I bring children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s focus on film locations and moderate pace suggests it’s suitable for older children and teenagers interested in movies.

What’s the cost?
The tour costs around $28 per person, offering good value considering the stories, locations, and souvenir included.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers.

This film-themed walk offers a delightful mix of Düsseldorf’s architecture, film history, and behind-the-scenes stories. Whether you’re a cinephile or just have a passing interest, it’s a great way to see the city through a different lens—and walk away with some memorable stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: